Political Reform

Having the courage to fight for policies that best support this system was a trademark of the Schwarzenegger administration and will continue at the Schwarzenegger Institute. Redistricting, open primaries, campaign finance, the role of media and the role of special interest all impact our political system and must be part of this important discussion.

Perspectives

By Bonnie Reiss and Christian Grose, The Sacramento Bee. As Californians and voters across the United States watch with various degrees of interest and fascination the Republican and Democratic presidential campaigns, one thing is clear: Political polarization is the order of the day. Traditionally it is said that to win the Republican nomination you must appeal to the more conservative elements of the party, and to win the Democratic nomination you must appeal to the more liberal elements of the party. The popularity of Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and Bernie Sanders seems to validate that belief as well as some extreme policy positions being taken by more centrist candidates.

It's been less than five years since voters approved two critical reforms to California's electoral system. Yet, because of these reforms, we are already seeing significant changes to the state's political landscape - and the changes are positive ones.